Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
…it is essential also to ask how technological alternatives are themselves
framed, how the worldviews of different organizational actors shape the range
of possibilities considered, and, most important, how differences among
worldviews influence the outcomes of change.… (Case studies) suggest that
the power-process perspective on technological change could both serve as
a bridge and inspire much more fundamental change in the way we think about
the relationship between technology and organization. (Thomas, 1994, p.
203)
Naturally, the discussions on how leadership through framing might be implemented
on computer systems cannot be limited to computer systems majors. Management majors
need to understand this issue equally well. They need to learn how to communicate vision
through computer systems:
As we begin to appreciate our role as managers of meaning, we will act on our instincts
to seize more framing opportunities (Fairhurst & Sarr, 1996, p. 19).
Managers and systems developers and maintainers need to understand the difference
between simply creating direct reports and framing the information. The leader must fit the
data into the framework of a larger vision.
In
The Art of Framing
, Fairhurst and Sarr discussed various language tools for framing,
such as metaphors, jargon, contrast, and stories. Although these seem to provide useful
communication tips for face-to-face conversations, they do not adequately cover what
should be discussed regarding framing through information systems.
The topic to facilitate this discussion has not yet been written. It would need to examine
numerous topics, such as the framing that takes place nonverbally, through choosing to send
a message through email rather than speaking with someone in person. It would also make
students aware that the content of email messages sent from one person to another in an
organization actually matters. It would need to cover interface design in terms of user reaction
and consider elements of report design. It would provide examples of leaders who are
consciously leading through framing using information systems. It would provide examples
of systems created for specific managers to help them lead subordinates. Even without such
a topic, students should learn about framing.
CONCLUSION
As organizations increasingly rely on computerized information systems as decision-
making aides, systems developers and managers must realize the leadership roles they fill
through framing information. Only then can the true power of information systems be realized.
Curricula should be modified or developed to include course discussion and projects aimed
at developing leadership through framing. Effective framing through information systems is
a necessary and powerful skill in contemporary organizations.
REFERENCES
Cohen, E. & Tichey, N. (1998). The teaching organization.
Training and Development,
52
(7),
27-33.
